Consider this: a museum dedicated to the story of an entire people. That’s Anu Museum of the Jewish People. It was formerly known as Beit Hatfutsot. We are standing before an institution that celebrates Jewish life. It explores the experiences and spirit of the Jewish community. This spans from biblical times to the present.
Beit Hatfutsot opened its doors in 1978. It fulfilled the vision of Nahum Goldmann. He was the former president of the World Jewish Congress. The museum aimed to strengthen Jewish identity. It also sought to provide visiting Jews with an understanding of their legacy. This fosters a sense of belonging.
In 2005, the Israeli Knesset passed the Beit Hatfutsot Law. This defined the museum as a National Center for Jewish Communities. These communities are both in Israel and around the world.
ANU Museum of the Jewish People underwent a significant transformation. It reopened to the public on March 10, 2021. This renewal included a new wing in 2016. It features temporary exhibitions. It also added the Alfred H. Moses and Family Synagogue Hall. This hall showcases synagogue scale models. Another addition was Heroes Trailblazers of the Jewish People. This is a children’s interactive exhibition.
Irina Nevzlin, the Museum Board Chair, emphasizes inclusion. The new brand identity embraces the diversity of the Jewish people.
Inside Beit Hatfutsot, you can explore four wings of exhibitions. There are three floors of new galleries. There is also a children’s gallery. Temporary exhibitions rotate regularly. The museum’s databases hold searchable archives. These include photos, films, music, genealogy, and family names. These resources are available both onsite and online.
One notable item is the Codex Sassoon 1053. It was purchased for $38.1 million. It was exhibited at Anu in March 2023. This makes the manuscript one of the most expensive ever sold at auction.
The Synagogue Hall features models of synagogues from around the world. These include the Eliahu Hanavi Synagogue model. Also showcased is the Great Sephardi Synagogue from Florence, Italy. Another model is of Beth Shalom Synagogue in Pennsylvania. This was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.
Beit Hatfutsot has received accolades. In 1985, it was awarded the Knesset Speaker’s Quality of Life Award.
ANU Museum of the Jewish People presents the story of a people. It’s a story of constant renewal and diversity. The museum connects Jewish people to their roots. It strengthens their personal and collective identity.